Rajya Sabha creates history; passes Women's Reservation Bill

History was created today with the Rajya Sabha passing the Women's Reservation Bill with more than two thirds majority. Out of 187 members present in the House, 186 voted in support and one against the bill.

Intervening in the debate on the Bill which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and the state assemblies, the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh described it as a giant and historic step forward. Referring to the concerns about the rights of minorities, Dr. Singh said that the government recognizes that they have not got their due share. He said that the government is committed to their empowerment and the process has already begun.

in reference to: Bihar Samachar (view on Google Sidewiki)